Scoliosis treatment abroad

It is characterized by non-invasive intervention. It includes therapeutic exercises according to the Schroth method, massages, and physiotherapy procedures. They strengthen the muscular structure, increase tone, and help to cope with physical activity, preventing deterioration.

Conservative methods of therapy include the use of supporting corsets and belts according to the Abbott-Chenot method. These are products with an elastic frame that helps keep your back in the correct position. With their help, you can straighten the spine and overcome the bad habit of slouching.

Important! It is recommended to use corsets under medical supervision. Prolonged stay in supporting structures is addictive. Muscles can atrophy, causing deterioration. The corset is made individually and always without hard edges, so that it is comfortable and does not rub. Treatment with a corset is effective only in situations where the growth of the spine has not yet been completed.                       

The treatment methods listed above are used in the detection of I-II stages of the disease (bend angle up to 25°). If the pathology is more complex, surgical treatment of scoliosis abroad is indicated.

This option is often shown at III-IV stages of the development of the disease. The essence of the operation is the introduction of a metal rod that supports the spine in the correct position and aligns it to a certain angle.

Important! In the last stages, the disease progresses rapidly, so the earlier the operation is performed, the smaller the rod should be installed and a smaller volume of the spine should be changed.

The recommended age for invasive treatment of scoliosis abroad is 13–15 years. During this period, the formation of the bone frame is completed, so the treatment is most justified and effective.

There are two main types of surgical treatment for scoliosis. Depending on the location of the penetration hole, there are operations with posterior and anterior access. For correction, internal fixators with different design features are used (depending on the age, condition of the patient, and the stage of the disease). To give the optimal shape and stabilize the leveling system, the frame is connected by transverse bridges. They are used mainly in Europe and Turkey.

Israeli doctors practice spinal fusion. This is an invasive intervention in which the vertebrae are fused together. Depending on the indications, the surgeon can use: strips of bone tissue, implants, titanium cages.

This allows to change the usual position of the body and correct the structure of the spine. No need to remove implants and metal rods.

An alternative to surgery is minimally invasive lumbar surgery. It is performed using a microscope and special retractor tubes of different sizes. In this case, the incision is reduced to 1–3 cm. A miniature fiber-optic video camera is inserted through the hole formed, the image from which is transmitted to the monitor in the operating room. Depending on the complexity, the operation lasts about 1-4 hours.

Doctors from European clinics perform surgeries using the latest medical equipment. To restore the functions of the spine, high-quality metal structures are used, which guarantee an effective result and a rapid improvement in the quality of life.

Surgical treatment of scoliosis abroad is sometimes preceded by preparatory rehabilitation. It can be prescribed by a doctor in severe forms of the disease in order to increase the effectiveness of the operation and prepare the patient’s body for the correction of the spine.

After the operation, the patient is immediately transferred to the ward. Individual reactions to anesthesia, and lack of appetite are possible.

If the patient cannot eat food on his own, a probe is installed.

For the first time after the operation, you can get up on the 2-3rd day. Medical staff without fail helps to start walking correctly. The patient is explained: how to move, take steps, change the position of the body, stand or sit.

Important! In the supine position, the patient must often turn over. It is necessary to immediately change the position of the whole body, preventing twisting of the back. 

After the operation, the patient is discharged on the 4th day. Stitches dissolve on their own and do not need to be removed.

Recommendations after surgery:

1. The patient can return to school and normal life 20 days after surgery. Running, swimming, and other types of physical activity are allowed
2. After the operation, there are no restrictions on lifestyle except for types of wrestling that involve sharp blows and tight body contact.
3. After the operation, the patient can bend in the lumbar region, provided there is a curvature in this area, which does not adversely affect the quality of life.
4. The patient can lead a normal intimate life in the future and have children

After the operation, it is recommended:

• not to perform tilts, turns, and other movements that contribute to the load on the back;
• to often change the position of the body, refrain from prolonged lying position;
• to be periodically observed by a treating specialist (once every 3 months), take x-rays over the next few years;
• to perform wellness training aimed at restoring the functions of the spine and strengthening the body. These include swimming and walking, and eventually cycling.

The patient can return to normal life in a month, provided that intensive physical activity is completely limited.

Medical tourism operator Experts Medical recommends choosing international centers in Turkey, Germany or Israel for scoliosis treatment. When searching for a country, pay attention to prices, clinic class and doctor’s reputation. For example, scoliosis treatment in Turkey will be much cheaper than in Germany or Israel. Two more circumstances affecting the cost – the severity of the disease and the amount of therapy performed. Scoliosis treatment in Israel by a world-renowned doctor will require more financial expenses than the same operation performed by a specialist with fewer regalia, but the same experience and high success rate.

Most patients prefer scoliosis treatment abroad based on the following facts:

1. The complex treatment technique is well-developed. Abroad, these operations are carried out every day.
2. Quality materials and innovative equipment are used. This avoids complications after surgery, guaranteeing a long-term result.
3. The use of minimally invasive techniques. This approach increases the overall effectiveness of treatment and improves the quality of life faster. It is more gentle for the body.
4. Fast rehabilitation and recovery period.

Some patients need a flight after surgery. This is one of the disadvantages of treatment abroad. It is important to understand that the patient’s spine is completely fixed, so there is no discomfort in a sitting position.

Another important factor is the price. In Turkey, surgical treatment of scoliosis will cost from $17,000 to $30,000. Proper selection of a surgeon will minimize the risks of complications and the need for a second operation.

Experts Medical works only with experienced doctors who regularly improve their skills at international conferences and internships. Among them are experts with a high percentage of successful operations and a good reputation among colleagues and patients. We provide free full support, and communication with the doctor and the medical center before, during, and after the operation. For patients, we offer an interpreter who will allow not to feel discomfort from the language barrier.

Contact us! We will help you choose a clinic and a doctor to ensure the best result of treatment.